As the autumn leaves begin to fall and a crisp chill fills the air, it’s the perfect time to cozy up for a movie marathon. Finding the right film can make or break a spooky season celebration. You might be asking, “What are the best Halloween movies to watch this year?” or “Where can I find a complete list of top Halloween movies?” We have curated the ultimate guide to the 31 best Halloween movies, ensuring a perfect pick for every taste, from family-friendly fun to heart-pounding horror.

This list is designed to answer all your queries about which Halloween films to prioritize. Whether you’re planning a party or a quiet night in, this is your definitive source for the most popular and iconic Halloween movies of all time.

What Are the Absolute Top Halloween Movies?

When it comes to the best Halloween movies, a few titles consistently top every list. These are the films that have defined the holiday for generations, blending spooky Halloween atmosphere with unforgettable stories. This section covers the must-watch films that belong in any serious Halloween movie collection.

1. Halloween (1978)

It’s impossible to create a list of Halloween movies without mentioning the one that started it all. John Carpenter’s Halloween introduced the world to the silent and menacing Michael Myers.

This film is the benchmark for the slasher genre and remains one of the most famous Halloween movies ever made. Its minimalist score and suspenseful pacing create a tense experience that continues to terrify audiences. For anyone looking for the ultimate Halloween scary movie, the original Halloween is essential viewing. It’s the peak of the Michael Myers Halloween movies saga.

2. Hocus Pocus (1993)

For those who prefer their spooky fun with a side of laughter, Hocus Pocus is a perennial favorite. The story of the Sanderson sisters, three witches resurrected in modern-day Salem, has become a cultural touchstone. It’s a fantastic choice for a family-friendly movie night and one of the most beloved Halloween theme movies. Its charm and humor make it one of the good Halloween movies that you can rewatch every single year.

3. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Is it a Christmas movie or a Halloween movie? The debate rages on, but Tim Burton’s stop-motion masterpiece is a staple of the spooky season. Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, discovers Christmas Town and his resulting identity crisis is a visual and musical delight. The unique animation and memorable songs make it one of the most iconic Halloween movies ever created.

4. Scream (1996)

Wes Craven’s Scream revitalized the horror genre in the ’90s with its clever, self-aware script. It plays with the tropes of scary movies while delivering genuine scares. The Ghostface killer is instantly recognizable, and the film’s blend of horror and meta-commentary makes it a smart and entertaining Halloween horror movie. It’s a great pick for those who appreciate a film that’s both intelligent and terrifying.

What Are Some Good Halloween Movies for Different Moods?

The best Halloween movie for you depends on what kind of experience you’re seeking. Do you want to be scared senseless, laugh until you cry, or get lost in a gothic fantasy? This Halloween movies to watch list is broken down to help you find the perfect fit.

Top Halloween Horror Movies for a True Scare

If your idea of a perfect Halloween involves hiding behind a pillow, these Halloween horror movies will deliver the thrills. These are some of the best scary Halloween movies guaranteed to keep you up at night.

• 5. The Exorcist (1973): Often cited as the scariest movie ever made, it’s a chilling tale of demonic possession.
• 6. Hereditary (2018): A modern horror masterpiece about a family grappling with grief and a terrifying inheritance.
• 7. The Conjuring (2013): Based on the real-life cases of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, this film is pure, effective Halloween horror.
• 8. A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984): Freddy Krueger haunts your dreams in this classic slasher, one of the most famous Halloween movies.
• 9. It (2017): This adaptation of Stephen King’s novel brings the terrifying Pennywise the Clown to a new generation, becoming one of the most popular Halloween movies in recent years.
• 10. Get Out (2017): Jordan Peele’s directorial debut is a psychological thriller that is both terrifying and thought-provoking.

Best Halloween Films for Family Fun

Not all Halloween movies to watch need to be terrifying. If you have younger viewers or simply prefer a lighter tone, these good Halloween movies to watch are excellent choices.

• 11. Beetlejuice (1988): Tim Burton’s quirky classic about a recently deceased couple and a mischievous bio-exorcist.
• 12. Ghostbusters (1984): Who you gonna call? This comedy classic is a must-watch for its humor and iconic characters.
• 13. The Addams Family (1991): The creepy, kooky, and altogether ooky family is perfect for a spooky but fun movie night.
• 14. Casper (1995): A heartwarming story about the friendly ghost that offers more sentiment than scares.
• 15. Coraline (2009): This stop-motion film is visually stunning but has enough creepy elements to satisfy those looking for a gentle thrill.

Which Halloween Movie Series Should I Binge-Watch?

Sometimes, one movie just isn’t enough. A Halloween movie series can provide hours of entertainment and allow you to dive deep into a world of horror or fantasy. If you’re looking for the best Halloween movies to watch in a sequence, these franchises are your top picks.

The Halloween movie series starring Michael Myers is the definitive choice. Start with the 1978 original and explore the numerous sequels and reboots. The saga of Laurie Strode vs. Michael Myers is the very definition of Halloween horror. The Michael Myers movies offer a complete arc of terror that spans decades.

Other series to consider for a marathon include:

• The Scream Series: Follow Sidney Prescott as she outsmarts various Ghostface killers.
• The Saw Franchise: For those who can stomach it, this series offers complex puzzles and gore.
• The Final Destination Series: Watch as teens try to cheat death in increasingly elaborate and gruesome ways.

More Top Halloween Movies to Complete Your List

To round out our ultimate guide, here are more popular and iconic Halloween movies that deserve a spot on your watchlist. This selection covers everything from cult classics to modern hits, ensuring you never run out of options.

16. Psycho (1960): Alfred Hitchcock’s masterpiece that set the stage for modern horror.
17. The Shining (1980): A slow-burn psychological horror that will get under your skin.
18. The Silence of the Lambs (1991): A chilling thriller featuring the unforgettable Hannibal Lecter.
19. Shaun of the Dead (2004): A hilarious “rom-zom-com” (romantic zombie comedy) that is perfect for a lighter Halloween.
20. Trick ‘r Treat (2007): An anthology film that weaves together several terrifying tales, all happening on Halloween night. A true Halloween theme movie.
21. The Cabin in the Woods (2011): A brilliant deconstruction of the horror genre.
22. Sleepy Hollow (1999): Tim Burton’s gothic take on the legend of the Headless Horseman.
23. It Follows (2014): A unique and relentless supernatural horror film.
24. The Blair Witch Project (1999): The found-footage film that terrified a generation and changed horror.
25. Poltergeist (1982): A classic suburban ghost story that preys on common fears.
26. Carrie (1976): A tragic and terrifying story of a telekinetic teenager.
27. The Sixth Sense (1999): A suspenseful ghost story with one of cinema’s most famous twists.
28. Zombieland (2009): A comedy-horror road trip with a fantastic cast and clear rules for survival.
29. Insidious (2010): A modern haunted house story that delivers classic scares with a creative twist.
30. Practical Magic (1998): A romantic fantasy about two witch sisters, perfect for a cozy, magical evening.
31. The Craft (1996): A ’90s cult classic about a group of high school witches who discover their power.

This list of the 31 best Halloween movies provides a comprehensive guide for your spooky season entertainment. From the scariest Halloween horror to fun Halloween films for the whole family, you now have the ultimate resource. So grab your popcorn, turn down the lights, and enjoy the very best Halloween movies to watch this year.